South Eastern Railway Launches Innovative Careers and Skills Hub to Foster Future Talent

South Eastern Railway has taken a significant leap towards building a modern, inclusive, and highly skilled workforce with the opening of its new careers and skills hub, Connect 38, in Ashford. This facility, located near Ashford International railway station, combines recruitment, digital learning, and professional development to create a dynamic environment for both new and existing employees to advance their careers in the railway sector.

With over 30,000 job applications in the past year, a dramatic increase from the previous year's 14,000, Connect 38 is a testament to the growing interest in railway careers. The hub is designed to more than double the capacity for recruitment and training, ensuring the railway sector is equipped with the next generation of talent.

Key Highlights:

• Ranked 24th in the 'Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers' for 2025, a significant rise of 34 places from 2024.
• Offers apprenticeships and targeted pathways for school leavers, veterans, and career-changers.
• Supports the Government’s skills agenda with career guidance, training facilities, and digital learning.

Quotes from Leaders:

• Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy emphasized the importance of skills and training in making the workforce accessible to all.
• Steve White, Managing Director, highlighted the railway's role in unlocking opportunities and supporting communities.
• Neil Robertson, Chief Executive of NSAR, praised Southeastern's commitment to apprenticeships and training.

Connect 38 also pays homage to railway pioneers, naming rooms after influential figures like Barbara Ann Denny, the first female train driver, and Asquith Xavier, a champion for racial equality in British transport.

With over 500 apprentices supported across the business and a Gold Accreditation from Investors in People, South Eastern Railway is setting a benchmark for people development and wellbeing in the transport sector.